Reg Schellenberg

Reginald Dale Schellenberg was born on December 24, 1958 at Swift Current Hospital to Walter and Caroline Schellenberg. From an early age Reg was drawn to the rural life as every weekend and holiday was spent at his grandparents Ted and Luella Schindel’s mixed farm just outside of Main Centre. 

He was happiest when he was out in nature, surrounded by the farm animals and wildlife. Known as a hard worker, the farmers in the area would hire him as a labourer when he was only 13. Due to his love of animals, Reg at age 16, sought out a job working at a local vet clinic. Throughout his life, Reg took pride in caring for his animals. He was always known for having quality cattle, performance horses, and well-trained working dogs.

Shortly after graduating from Swift Current Comprehensive High School, he gained employment at the Research Station working within the forage department. In January of 1978, Reg met his soulmate, Shannon Perrin. By the end of that year, he went to work at the Perrin Ranching Company.

Reg & Shannon married on July 12, 1980 and soon after, established their home in the hills along Lake Diefenbaker, south of Beechy, SK. From 1983-1990, Reg & Shannon were in partnership with the Perrin Ranching family. They’d go on to grow their family of 3 —Jesse, Coy, and Stacey. In 1990, they established their own ranch with their three children and proudly took the name, Perrin Ranching 1990 Ltd. With their children, Reg & Shannon embraced their Ranch life, eagerly and openly sharing it with their family and friends.

In Reg & Shannon’s early years of marriage, they travelled to rodeos together and were Canadian Cowboy Association card holders — competing in Saddle Bronc Riding and Barrel Racing. Reg & Shannon and their children were very active in the local church. As well as the local 4H Club, Sask Cutting Horse Association, and Sask High School Rodeo. Reg was active in the Beechy Rodeo Committee for over 25 years. Many years working as a Chute Boss, Arena Director, and eventually took his turn as the President of Beechy Rodeo Committee.

In 2012, Reg & Shannon were elated to have their son Coy and his wife Laura-Lie move home and begin a partnership on the family ranch.

Life on the ranch required 365 days a year commitment, but Reg always made time for family, friends, and faith. Family was at the heart of Reg’s choices. Everything Reg accomplished was motivated by his passion to provide for Shannon, their children, and grandchildren. He was truly a “hero” to his family. 

Reg felt blessed to have 10 beautiful grandchildren and he viewed it as one of his proudest accomplishments. He gladly embraced his identity as “Papa” and “G-pa.” He made a point of checking in with each of his kids and found time to encourage them and support wherever their career and life path took them. Spontaneous coffee visits, sleepovers, and dinner invitations were a weekly given.

He loved boating, water sports, and winter skiing. He especially loved taking his family and friends on boat tours around Lake Diefenbaker. He was an avid hunter, excellent marksmen, conservationist, and a natural athlete. Reg was famously known for slalom skiing until the age of 60. 

He had a strong conviction to stand up for what was right even if he was standing alone. His sense of justice drew him to positions that allowed him to use his voice to advocate for the underdog. This was exemplified in his personal and professional life. Known for his cowboy logic, he was well spoken of and respected among his colleagues. For the vast majority of his ranching career, Reg donated his time and knowledge to the betterment of the cattle industry. Reg was first elected as a director to the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) in 2010 and with his qualities, it was no surprise that Reg was voted as President of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association on March 25, 2022.

As quoted by the new CCA President, Nathan Phinney of New Brunswick, “Reg’s legacy and impact on the Canadian cattle industry will be felt for years to come. His gentle demeanor and strong character are qualities that many of us in the industry looked up to…He will be fondly remembered for being a tireless advocate for cattle producers, taking a particular interest in advancing the priorities related to animal health and care, as well as protecting and preserving our industry for the next generation.”

On Friday, December 2, 2022 at the age of 63, Reg passed suddenly at his home ranch and joined his two ranching mentors — his great uncle, Wilf Cornelson and his father-in-law, Ted Perrin. We envision Reg riding on his favourite buckskin horse, alongside his mentors and Jesus, hearing the words from his Saviour, “Well done, son.” And Reg replying, “Just right.”

Reg is lovingly remembered by his wife and soulmate Shannon, of 42 years; his three children, Jesse (Tracy) Schellenberg, Coy (Laura-Lie) Schellenberg, and Stacey (Brett) Schwartz; his 10 grandchildren, Somaya, Kelson, Veila, Ryle, Weyland, and Mirra; Ella, Nora, Ty, and Faye; his father and step-mother, Walter & Lynne Schellenberg; his brother, Jarrod Schellenberg; his step-brother, Regan Schellenberg; and by numerous sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, aunties, uncles, and cousins.

Reg was predeceased by his mother, Caroline (nee Schindel) Schellenberg; his grandparents, Ted & Luella Schindel, Ben & Mary Schellenberg; and by his father and mother-in-law, Ted & Olive Perrin.

The Celebration of Life for Reg Schellenberg was held on Friday, December 16, 2022 at 2:00 pm from East Side Church of God, Swift Current, SK with Pastor Brad Young officiating. “It is Well,” “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” “In Christ Alone,” and the Doxology were sung by the congregation under the leadership of Kim Fast and Rachelle Patzer. Special music was brought by Reg’s grandchildren, who sang “Precious Memories,” “You Are My Sunshine,” and “Jesus Loves Me” and by Kim Fast and Rachelle Patzer, who sang “How Do I Say Goodbye.” Tributes were given by Reg’s children, Jesse, Coy, and Stacey. A photo presentation was given by the family.

The ushers in the church were Reg & Shannon’s nephews. The Honour Guard was CCA Board, Executives, Staff, Colleagues, and Friends Closer than a Brother — Nathan Phinney, Dennis Laycraft, Ryder Lee, Bob Lowe, Tyler Fulton, David Haywood Farmer, Martin Unrau, Travis Toews, Pat Hayes, Dave Moss, Jill Harvie, Rob McNabb, Cathy Sharp, Andrea Brocklebank, Michelle McMullen, Jessica Radau, Sylvain Bourque, André Roy, Brad Dubeau, Kevin Boon, Anne Brunet-Burgess, John Masswohl, Jennifer Babcock, Paula Jenkins, Larry Thomas, Caron Melin, Brenna Grant, Daniella Lombardo, Mitchell Zoratti, Scott Williamson, Trent Olson, Gary Martens, and Charlie Bear.

Special thanks to the Beechy Hutterite Colony, who generously provided the food for the luncheon.

The service was recorded and can be viewed here.

The service card is available to view below.

A Private Family Interment Service will take place at a later date.

In memory of Reg Schellenberg, donations made to Canadian Cattle Foundation (180 - 6815 8th St. NE, Calgary, AB, T2E 7H7) to support the Canadian Cattle Young Leaders program would be appreciated by the family. Tax receipts will be issued for donations over $25.

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